Tokyo, November 20,
2006 — Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation today launched the Vega Rose
bulk carrier for Liberia-based Rosex Company Limited at its Kobe
Shipyard. The carrier, identified as Kawasaki hull No. 1568 and the 12th
55,500 DWT bulk carrier developed by Kawasaki Shipbuilding, will be
delivered in January 2007 after outfitting at the quay of the Shipyard.
The 189.9 m
vessel has a flush deck with forecastle and five holds that are designed
for optimum transport of grains, coals, ores and steel products. A new
proprietary bow designed to reduce wave resistance allows the ship to
operate with less fuel. Four 30 ton deck cranes are installed in the
center in between hatch covers to enable cargo loading and unloading in
ports where no cargo handling facilities are available. It is powered by
a lightweight, compact Kawasaki-MAN B&W 6S50MC-C high-output engine.